2006
Justice

For more than 25 years, Madonna Morris and Debbie Brennan have co-managed the Registry of the Court of Appeal providing for: efficient court operations; maintenance of the records on a permanent basis; management of large quantities of written materials; court services for the judges; registry services and guidance related to appeals for the legal profession; and guidance and service to the general public accessing this registry. They have always performed their work with great competence, dedication, loyalty and good humour.

As the court underwent a period of restoration, the registry staff continued to meet and exceed the expectations of legal professionals, the public, government officials, judges and self-represented litigants. This dynamic team is known for being exceptionally patient and accommodating. Madonna and Debbie are often the first contact the general public has with the court, and they demonstrate outstanding courtesy and professionalism.

For a quarter of a century, they have been the liaison between the public/lawyers and the judges of the Court of Appeal. As a member of the legal community who worked with them for more than 20 years has said they perform “this role with panache and dignity by resource, by skill, by boundless and selfless energy, by faultless service, by perfect discipline and by unconquerable fidelity.” Madonna and Debbie consistently provide advice and practical assistance which expedites the legal process. Their quiet competence has helped ensure that these matters proceed in an efficient and effective manner.

The registry team provides exceptional public service, even when presented with challenges. In November 2004, for example, a broken pipe caused considerable damage to the courtroom and adjacent offices, including a storage area where most of the files and records of the court are kept. Madonna and Debbie coordinated a major salvage effort to save large volumes of records of current and completed court cases, and developed a means of continuing court operations with such damaged materials. Their relentless dedication ensured the seamless continuation of service during a difficult situation.

Madonna and Debbie continue to influence co-workers and the general public with their exemplary public service. Whether assisting lawyers, providing sage advice to individuals negotiating the complexities of appellate work, or explaining court processes and procedures, these individuals have expedited legal processes and are always ready to help resolve underlying problems. Their outstanding performance is truly the pinnacle of public service.